A recent court ruling in Papua New Guinea has marked a significant advancement in efforts to combat sorcery-related violence, a deeply entrenched issue within the country. For the first time, an individual has been convicted under the Glasman Act, legislation enacted in 2022 that specifically addresses accusations of sorcery. This landmark case involved James Mon, who received a five-year prison sentence for accusing Lorna Nico, a mother of five, of sorcery, leading to her brutal murder by a mob in front of her young daughter.
Beliefs surrounding magic and sorcery are prevalent in Papua New Guinea, often serving as explanations for misfortunes, such as illness and death. Women are disproportionately affected by these accusations, facing horrific violence, including gang rape and torture. Statistics show that approximately 700 individuals suffer torture or death annually in the nation due to sorcery allegations.
Pope Francis has previously highlighted this issue, advocating for the elimination of superstitions that lead to violence. The recent conviction is seen as a pivotal moment for victims of sorcery accusation-related violence (SARV), with advocates hopeful that it will deter further incidents and promote accountability for accusers. Seven individuals have been convicted under the Glasman Act since its inception, with sentences ranging from five to twenty-five years.
The PNG Tribal Foundation has reported alarming trends regarding SARV, indicating a large number of cases go unreported or are not prosecuted, creating a culture where such violence can flourish unchecked. Under the Glasman Act, even those who do not directly cause physical harm can be held accountable, which may encourage community members to think twice before leveraging sorcery accusations for personal vendettas.
The recent court decision has garnered support from various officials, highlighting the urgent need for ongoing education and awareness campaigns to inform communities about the severe penalties associated with false accusations of sorcery. Prime Minister James Marape condemned violence against women, reinforcing the government’s commitment to eradicate these harmful traditions.
As the fight against SARV continues, advocacy efforts like those spearheaded by activists such as Evelyn Kunda—who works to aid victims and raise awareness—are crucial to creating lasting change. The path forward requires not only legal reform but also broader societal transformation to protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation and violence in Papua New Guinea.
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